Somerset County Jail Overview
Somerset County Jail, located in Somerset, Pennsylvania, primarily houses inmates awaiting trial or sentencing, typically for periods of less than two years. It’s a medium-security facility serving a critical role in the criminal justice system by holding individuals from nearby municipalities, including detainees from the U.S. Marshals Service and Somerset Police Department. The jail also focuses on reintegrating offenders into society by offering various programs and services
Contact Information for Somerset County Jail
If you need to contact Somerset County Jail, here is the essential information:
- Address: 127 E Fairview St, Somerset, PA 15501
- Phone: 814-445-1500
- Email: Not publicly available; call for details.
This facility is managed by the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, and it operates under strict protocols to ensure the safety and security of both staff and inmates.
Somerset County Jail Visiting Information
Visitation at Somerset County Jail is an important way for inmates to maintain connections with their loved ones. Both in-person and video visitation options are available.
In-Person Visitation: Begins at 6:30 PM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, with two blocks each evening (6:30 PM to 7:30 PM and 7:45 PM to 8:45 PM). Visitors are advised to sign up well in advance, as availability is limited
Video Visitation: Video visits can be scheduled more flexibly, often allowing longer visitation times from the comfort of your home. These are arranged through Securus Technologies
What to Bring for Your Visit
When visiting, be prepared for a security check. You must present a valid government-issued photo ID, and if bringing minors, you’ll need proof of relationship like a birth certificate. Wear appropriate attire, as strict dress codes are enforced. No personal items like purses, phones, or backpacks are allowed inside
Booking a Visit at Somerset County Jail
To book a visit, call the jail’s visitation desk at 814-445-1500. Make sure you’re on the inmate’s approved visitor list, and schedule your visit at least 48 hours in advance. Each inmate is allowed one hour of visitation per week
Directions and Parking for Somerset County Jail
Somerset County Jail is located on East Fairview Street, a short drive off the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during peak visitation times. Make sure to arrive early, as late arrivals may result in loss of your visitation slot
Life Inside Somerset County Jail
Life for inmates at Somerset County Jail is centered around structured routines. The facility uses a “pod” system where inmates share a common area for recreational activities like reading, watching TV, or playing cards. Inmates with good behavior may participate in work programs like laundry or food service, potentially earning sentence reductions. Phone calls are allowed but are outbound only, and all conversations are monitored
The jail’s environment is generally less stressful than state prisons, as most inmates are serving shorter sentences. Compliance with the jail’s rules can lead to lower-security classifications and more privileges
Famous Prisoners at Somerset County Jail
While Somerset County Jail is typically used for short-term detentions, it has housed notable individuals, including those awaiting high-profile trials. For example, Edward Sherlock, an inmate involved in a violent altercation, made headlines recently
FAQS
1. How do I contact Somerset County Jail?
You can reach Somerset County Jail by calling 814-445-1500 or visiting the Sheriff’s Office in Somerset, PA.
2. How do I book a visit at Somerset County Jail?
Visits can be scheduled by calling the jail’s visitation desk and ensuring you’re on the inmate’s approved list. Visits must be booked at least 48 hours in advance
3. What are the visitation hours at Somerset County Jail?
In-person visits are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM and 7:45 PM to 8:45 PM. Video visits offer more flexible scheduling
4. What is life like for an inmate at Somerset County Jail?
Inmates spend their time in a “pod” system with recreational activities and work programs available for those with good behavior. Phone calls are allowed but monitored
5. Can I send mail to an inmate at Somerset County Jail?
Mail is accepted but must follow strict guidelines. Personal letters are scanned before being delivered digitally. Legal documents and books from authorized sellers are allowed
6. How long can I visit an inmate?
Visits typically last for one hour per week per inmate. Video visits may offer longer durations depending on scheduling availability
7. What items are allowed during a visit?
Visitors must bring a valid ID and are not allowed to carry personal items like phones, bags, or food into the visitation area
8. Can children visit Somerset County Jail?
Yes, but they must be accompanied by an adult and have proof of their relationship with the inmate, such as a birth certificate
9. How do video visits work at Somerset County Jail?
Video visits can be conducted via Securus Technologies. These visits offer more flexibility than in-person visits, but they do carry a fee
10. Does Somerset County Jail offer inmate work programs?
Yes, inmates can participate in work programs like laundry and commissary, which can lead to sentence reductions for good behavior
Conclusion
Somerset County Jail serves a vital function in the justice system by housing inmates awaiting trial and those serving short-term sentences. With both in-person and video visitation options, it helps maintain connections between inmates and their families, while focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration. Be sure to follow all visitation guidelines and schedule visits in advance to ensure a smooth process.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office website
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